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how many telescope in space

by:LARREX     2023-11-14

How Many Telescopes are Currently in Space?


Introduction:


The field of astronomy has greatly benefited from technological advancements over the years. Among the most influential tools in astronomical observations are telescopes. Traditional ground-based telescopes have played a significant role in uncovering the secrets of the universe. However, astronomers have made tremendous progress by placing telescopes in space. In this article, we will explore the numerous telescopes currently orbiting our planet and the revolutionary contributions they have made to our understanding of the cosmos.


1. Hubble Space Telescope: Window to the Universe


The Hubble Space Telescope, launched by NASA in 1990, is often regarded as one of the most significant astronomical observatories ever constructed. Named after the renowned astronomer Edwin Hubble, this telescope has been instrumental in capturing breathtaking images and collecting valuable data about our universe. It has provided unparalleled insights into distant galaxies, black holes, and the age and expansion of the universe.


The Hubble Space Telescope orbits Earth at an altitude of approximately 547 kilometers (340 miles). Its location outside Earth's atmosphere enables it to avoid atmospheric disturbances and provides clarity for capturing high-resolution images. The Hubble is equipped with various instruments that work together to observe objects across different wavelengths of light, including ultraviolet, visible, and infrared.


2. Chandra X-ray Observatory: Exploring the Violent Universe


While the Hubble Space Telescope focuses mainly on visible and ultraviolet light, the Chandra X-ray Observatory delves into the universe's high-energy phenomena. Launched by NASA in 1999, the Chandra X-ray Observatory has contributed immensely to our understanding of astronomical objects that emit X-rays, such as black holes, neutron stars, and supernovae remnants.


Operating in a highly elliptical orbit, Chandra orbits Earth at a distance ranging from 16,000 to 133,000 kilometers (10,000 to 83,000 miles). By collecting X-rays instead of visible light, Chandra unveils the most energetic events in the universe, revealing details that would otherwise remain hidden.


3. Spitzer Space Telescope: Peering through Infrared Eyes


Launched by NASA in 2003, the Spitzer Space Telescope is primarily designed to explore the universe using infrared radiation. Its ability to observe the universe in this unique wavelength range has proven invaluable in studying phenomena such as star formation, exoplanets, and the birth and death of stars. The telescope is named after the renowned astronomer Lyman Spitzer Jr., who is credited with proposing the concept of space telescopes in the 1940s.


Spitzer orbits the Sun, rather than Earth, and trails behind our planet in its journey, which ensures that Earth does not obstruct its view. This positioning, coupled with the telescope's infrared capabilities, allows it to detect and study objects that are obscured or faint in visible light.


4. Kepler Space Telescope: Hunting for Exoplanets


The Kepler Space Telescope, launched by NASA in 2009, was specifically designed to search for planets beyond our solar system, known as exoplanets. Its primary mission was to determine the frequency of Earth-like planets within the habitable zones of their respective stars.


Kepler continuously observed a fixed field of stars, carefully documenting any subtle changes in their brightness that could indicate the presence of orbiting planets. This groundbreaking observatory detected thousands of exoplanet candidates, revolutionizing our understanding of the prevalence and diversity of planets in our galaxy. Despite the exhaustion of its reaction wheels, which stabilized its pointing, Kepler's accomplishments remain remarkable.


5. James Webb Space Telescope: The Next Frontier


As we discuss current telescopes in space, it is crucial to mention the upcoming James Webb Space Telescope (JWST), set to be launched by NASA in late 2021 or early 2022. Often referred to as the successor to Hubble, JWST is designed to be the most powerful space telescope ever built. Its advanced technology and larger mirror will enable it to observe the universe in even greater detail, including studying the atmospheres of exoplanets for signs of habitability.


JWST will be positioned nearly 1.5 million kilometers (1 million miles) from Earth, orbiting the Sun. This distance allows the telescope's components to cool down to exceptionally low temperatures, essential for observing in the infrared spectrum. Astronomers and scientists around the world eagerly await JWST's launch, anticipating the groundbreaking discoveries it will undoubtedly make.


Conclusion:


With the advent of telescopes in space, humanity has gained unprecedented access to the wonders of the universe. The Hubble Space Telescope, Chandra X-ray Observatory, Spitzer Space Telescope, Kepler Space Telescope, and the upcoming James Webb Space Telescope have revolutionized our understanding of the cosmos. Each telescope plays a critical role in unraveling various astronomical mysteries, from distant galaxies to exoplanets. As technology advances, the continuous exploration and utilization of space-based telescopes will undoubtedly expand our knowledge of the vast and awe-inspiring universe we call home.


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